Albert Pujols’
tremendous second half has restored his value and his determination to match the $27.5 million a year that the Yankees gave
Alex Rodriguez.
…
Don’t be surprised if
Ryan Braun
steals some bases in the playoffs. He has been running well after recovering from an inflamed tendon behind his left knee, becoming the Brewers’ second ever 30/30 player. …
The Yankees still are worried about Rodriguez’s left thumb. He has been using a split grip on the bat lately, with a layered O-ring of tape between his hands to protect his sprained thumb. Rodriguez could be dropped out of the cleanup spot in the playoffs because of fears teams will pitch around
Robinson Cano.
…
The Cardinals’ blown save Thursday against the Mets revealed the flaw that probably will prevent them from making the playoffs. With
Tony La Russa
pushing for reinforcements, they sent
Chris Perez
to the Indians to get
Mark DeRosa
in 2009, and continue to pay a price for giving away a guy they had developed as a closer. …
Why is
Miguel Cabrera
taking ground balls at third base? There’s a chance the Tigers could play him there in the World Series, if they get there. That would be the only way to get
Victor Martinez
and
Alex Avila
in the lineup at the same time. …
Highly decorated scout
Gary Hughes,
who said last week he’s leaving the Cubs’ organization, will be missed by many. Like departed general manager
Jim Hendry,
he works hard and treats people well. He’s a resource Chairman
Tom Ricketts
should have found a way to maintain, as any general manager would want him on his staff. …
The Nationals are not going to pursue
Prince Fielder,
no matter how many rumors link them to him. The Nationals could open 2012 with
Michael Morse
in left field but look at him as their long-term first baseman. They also haven’t written off prospect
Chris Marrero,
who has looked good in September. …
Clayton Kershaw
went to high school with Lions quarterback
Matthew Stafford.
…
Rawlings has adjusted Gold Glove voting to list outfielders by the position they play — left, center and right. AL voters will have their hands full separating center fielders
Peter Boujos, Jacoby Ellsbury, Curtis Granderson, Adam Jones
and
Austin Jackson.
